Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of June.
Good morning, Ann Arbor.
A fire broke out at the Material Recovery Facility on Platt Road on June 18 at about 8 a.m.—firefighters worked to contain the blaze while a worker was taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation, and officials said the cause remains unknown due to the large volume of trash.
Former University of Michigan DEI administrator Rachel Dawson was fired after an investigation into her alleged antisemitic remarks at a March 2024 conference and now intends to sue the university—she claims she was treated differently than non-Black women during the probe and seeks lost wages plus compensation for emotional distress. The university defended the termination, saying her conduct at the conference and a later protest warranted the action and will vigorously defend against the suit.
Officials from the Washtenaw County Road Commission said that at least four roundabouts will be built in 2026 near Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Dexter with total road closures expected for weeks during construction.
Public meetings this fall will provide details on construction timelines and traffic impacts — key information for local drivers.
Mott Children’s Hospital reopened its renovated Game Day Experience Room on June 19—a 2,700‑square‑foot space with a lounge zone, press box, playground, and wheelchair‑accessible swing—for patients and their families.
The $650,000 donor‑funded project restored joyful sounds after months of quiet and celebrated the hospital’s ongoing care and community support.
Ann Arbor Cars and Coffee Gathering
7:30-11 a.m. — Zingerman's Roadhouse — Free entry — A relaxed morning of car showcases and photography sessions with fellow enthusiasts.
Birdtalker Concert
7-9 p.m. — The Ark — $29.00 — Experience the infectious sounds of Birdtalker, featuring their hit single 'Heavy' and a special guest performance.
Michigan Engineering North Campus Tour
10:00 – 11:30 AM — Robotics Building (FMCRB) — Registration required — Explore the innovative environment where engineering meets creativity on a guided walking tour.
Turtle Tuesday Celebration
10-11 a.m. — Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum — Admission required — Shell-ebrate turtles and learn about their amazing habitats and behaviors with live turtle ambassadors.
Melissa Ferrick Live Concert
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Ark — $35.00 — Experience an evening with Melissa Ferrick, a genre-defying songwriter blending indie, alternative, folk, and punk with heartfelt lyricism.
Joe Reilly and The Community Gardeners
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Ark — $24.00 — Experience emotional blues, folk, and rock music with a message of love for the planet and humanity.
Ruta Reifen Trunk Show
11 AM – 5 PM — Thistle & Bess — Free entry — Explore a vibrant collection of colorful jewelry created by Brooklyn designer Ruta Reifen.
Yoga in the Taproom
1-2 p.m. — Bløm Mead + Cider — Admission included — Unwind after the week with yoga flow and a refreshing drink.
Blind Pig Comedy Night
8-9:30 p.m. — The Blind Pig — Tickets from $2.50 — Enjoy a night of laughter at Ann Arbor's favorite comedy venue.
Matt the Electrician Concert
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Ark — $29.00 — Experience the quirky folk/pop sounds of Matt the Electrician with special guest Dana Falconberry.
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